Timing Advance Processor: Types & Selection Guide

The Timing Advance Processor (TAP) is one of the critical components in alternative fuel systems where ignition timing is a crucial factor for improved engine performance. When moving from petrol to gas (CNG or LPG occurs because cleaner fuels burn differently), the engine needs calibrating for spark advance, centrifugal advance to be precise! This ultimate guide thoroughly analyzes the timing advance processors and explores their types and the way to choose the appropriate one for your vehicle.

Whether you’re a mechanic specializing in alternative fuel conversions or an automotive professional seeking to understand these critical components, this guide provides the technical knowledge needed to make informed decisions about timing advance processor selection and installation.

Understanding Timing Advance Processors

A timing advance processor (TAP) is an electronic control unit that varies the original spark advance during the operation of an engine with CNG or LPG fuels. These products help to improve engine performance by tuning for the slower burn rate of alternative fuels versus gasoline by adjusting ignition timing.

The main purpose of a TAP is to take control of the ignition timing signals by providing offset delays or advances. This, in turn, allows for the right point for combustion to occur, preventing complications such as knocking, loss of fuel efficiency, and loss of power with alternate fuels when gasoline-timed.

Emergency jumpers are present on most timing advance processors which can short out the device in a malfunction and allow the vehicle to return to its initial factory specifications. This is a safety feature so that drivers can still drive if the TAP were to fail.

Types of Ignition Systems and Timing Advance Processor Compatibility

Mechanical Breaker Point Ignition Systems

On older cars the ignition system is a combination of breaker points and a distributor. These systems depend on mechanical timing adjustments and need certain TAP models to be fitted for their elementary electrical systems.

The AEB531 timing advance/currenting processor is designed for mechanical systems of this kind. It is installed between the distributor and the coil, and should intercept the low-voltage null signal back from the breaker points to the coil.

Electronic Ignition Systems with Coil and Distributor

Electronic ignition restored the electrical connection via a switching system rather than a mechanical contact breaker; it did so little to change the distributor-based system. Such systems need TAPs which can interface with electronic ignition modules.

Fitment: suitable for AEB, suitable for models AEB526N and AEB549N, connecting the ignition module output signal. These processors are capable of faster changeover times for electronic ignition systems.

Electronic Systems with Ignition Modules

Sophisticated electronic ignition systems have their ignition modules that adjust ignition timing in response to engine speed and load information. Here’s where the AEB515N reprogrammable TAP comes in for those advanced systems.

This type of processor has adjustable parameters to tune the timing advance curves for certain engines and fuels. The reprogrammable functionality allows it fit a full range of vehicles among those listed within the applications.

Crankshaft Position Sensor Systems

Modern engines use crankshaft position (CKP) sensors to provide precise timing information to the engine control unit. These systems require TAPs that can process digital sensor signals accurately.

CKP Sensor Types:

• Inductive sensors generate analog voltage signals as teeth on the crankshaft trigger wheel pass by
• Hall effect sensors produce digital square wave signals when magnetic fields change

Timing Advance Processor Selection Guide

Factors to Consider

Selecting the appropriate timing advance processor requires careful analysis of several key factors:

• Ignition System Type: Determine if your vehicle has thermal breaker points, an electronic ignition distributor, or a CKP sensor. They need different TAP models with different signal processing capabilities.
• Fuel Type Compatibility: Make sure that the TAP is compatible with your preferred type of fuel (CNG, LPG, or both). Some processors are dual-fuel, and some are single-fuel type optimized.
• Adjustable Timing Range: Keep in mind the range of timing advance you need for your particular engine and fuel combination. Other engine configurations may require different advances.

Emergency Backup Features: Verify that the TAP includes emergency connector functionality to bypass the system if problems occur.

AEB Timing Advance Processors

AEB offers a comprehensive range of timing advance processors designed for various ignition system types:

Model	Ignition System	CKP Sensor Type	Fuel Types	Timing Range	Emergency Connector
AEB531	Mechanical breaker points	N/A	CNG, LPG	0-25°	Yes
AEB526N	Electronic with distributor	N/A	CNG, LPG	0-20°	Yes
AEB549N	Electronic with distributor	N/A	CNG, LPG	0-20°	Yes
AEB515N	Electronic with a module	N/A	CNG, LPG	Programmable	Yes
AEB510N	CKP sensor	Inductive	CNG, LPG	0-30°	Yes
AEB516N	CKP sensor	Inductive	CNG, LPG	0-30°	Yes
AEB511N	CKP sensor	Hall effect	CNG, LPG	0-30°	Yes
AEB518N	CKP sensor	Hall effect	CNG, LPG	0-30°	Yes

Ignition System Compatibility Matrix

Ignition System Type	Compatible TAP Models	Installation Notes
Mechanical breaker points	AEB531	Connect between distributor and coil
Electronic with coil & distributor	AEB526N, AEB549N	Interface with the ignition module output
Electronic with ignition module	AEB515N	Requires programming for specific applications
CKP sensor (inductive)	AEB510N, AEB516N	Monitor sensor signal integrity
CKP sensor (Hall effect)	AEB511N, AEB518N	Verify the 5V reference voltage

Timing Advance Processor Installation and Setting Procedures

General Installation Steps

All timing advance processor installations follow similar basic procedures:

1. Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical damage during installation
2. Identify the appropriate connection points based on the ignition system type
3. Connect the TAP according to the manufacturer’s wiring diagram
4. Set the timing advance using the processor’s adjustment controls
5. Test the system to verify proper operation

Mechanical Breaker Point Systems (AEB531)

For mechanical ignition systems:

Installation:

• Connect the TAP between the distributor’s negative terminal and the ignition coil’s negative terminal
• Ensure proper grounding connections
• Mount the TAP in a protected location away from heat and moisture

Setting:

• Use the onboard potentiometer to adjust the timing advance
• Start with the manufacturer’s recommended settings (typically 10-15 degrees)
• Fine-tune based on engine performance and fuel type

Verification:

• Use a timing light to verify actual advance changes
• Check that the emergency connector properly bypasses the system

Electronic Ignition Systems (AEB526N, AEB549N)

Installation:

• Identify the ignition module’s output signal wire
• Connect the Timing Advance Processor inline with this signal
• Ensure proper power and ground connections

Setting:

• Adjust the timing advance using DIP switches or a potentiometer
• Monitor engine performance during adjustment
• Verify proper operation at idle and various RPM ranges

CKP Sensor Systems (AEB510N, AEB516N, AEB511N, AEB518N)

Installation:

• Locate the CKP sensor connector
• Install the TAP inline with the sensor signal wire
• Maintain proper signal polarity and shielding

Setting:

• Use an oscilloscope to verify signal integrity
• Adjust the timing advance based on sensor type and engine requirements
• Test operation across the full RPM range

Troubleshooting Common Timing Advance Processor Issues

Symptom	Possible Cause	Solution
Engine knock on CNG/LPG	Insufficient timing advance	Increase the advanced setting
Poor acceleration	Excessive timing advance	Reduce advanced settings
The engine won’t start	Wiring connection error	Check all connections
Rough idle	Incorrect idle bypass setting	Adjust idle advance exclusion
TAP not responding	Power supply issue	Verify 12V power and ground

Emergency Connector Functionality

All AEB timing advance processors also have cut off connectors, which are essential safety tools. these connectors let technicians or racers free to disable the TAP system on the fly.

How Emergency Connectors Work:

• Provide a direct connection between the original ignition components
• Bypass the TAP’s signal processing completely
• Restore factory ignition timing when connected
• Allow continued vehicle operation during TAP malfunctions

When to Use Emergency Connectors:

• TAP malfunction symptoms appear
• Engine performance issues arise after TAP installation
• Diagnostic procedures require factory timing
• Emergencies where the vehicle must operate normally

Optimizing Performance with Alternative Fuels

Timing advance processor selection and tuning can have a drastic effect on engine performance with CNG and LPG fuels. The alternative fuels have distinct combustion properties, which necessitate optimized timing.

CNG Considerations:

• Higher octane rating allows more aggressive timing advance
• Slower flame propagation requires earlier ignition timing
• Cleaner combustion reduces knock tendency

LPG Considerations:

• Similar octane characteristics to high-grade gasoline
• Different vaporization properties affect timing requirements
• Storage pressure considerations for system design

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right Timing Advance Processor means you must be able to correctly determine your vehicle’s ignition system type and answer the question, “How do I want to use this?” First, you need to know if you have mechanical breaker points, electronic ignition (no points), mechanical/electronic distributor, or CKP sensor systems.

Think about the types of fuels you intend to run, how much timing sweep you need, and if you need special features like programmability or vehicle-specific harnesses. Professional installation is recommended to ensure the best performance and safety , especially for the complicated electronic ignition systems.

The expense of a quality timing advance processor is quickly recovered in better engine performance, increased fuel economy, and less emissions when using alternate fuels. Just select who’s been supplying alternative fuel systems for a while, like AEB, and get the proper technical backup and proven track record in alternative fuels technology.

For best results, consult with your full system installer regarding recommendations for your specific vehicle and usage profile.

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